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SUBHASH GHAI SAYS SMALL-BUDGET FILMS WINNING IN THEATRES IS THE 'REAL ACHIEVEMENT'
Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai took a nostalgic trip down memory lane as he celebrated some of the most memorable films produced under his Mukta Searchlight Films banner. Sharing a collage featuring posters of four critically acclaimed movies, Ghai reflected on the enduring power of meaningful storytelling over extravagant budgets. His post served as a reminder that compelling content can often outshine big-budget spectacle when it connects with audiences. Sharing the posters, Ghai wrote, "When small-budget movies with great content hit the big screens in theatres and are loved, it's the real achievement of any production house. All four of these films were produced by Mukta Search Light Films and were highly applauded in theatres. And we are still proud of them." The filmmaker's message quickly resonated with cinephiles, many of whom praised him for consistently backing stories that prioritised substance over scale. The collage featured four notable films-Black & White (2008), Rahul, Joggers' Park (2003), and
Iqbal (2005). While each film belonged to a different genre, they shared a common thread: powerful storytelling. Black & White explored terrorism and identity; Rahul delved into family relationships; Joggers' Park examined mature love and selfdiscovery; and Iqbal inspired audiences with the emotional journey of a deaf and mute boy chasing his dream of becoming a cricketer. Among these, Iqbal remains one of Indian cinema's most celebrated inspirational dramas, earning widespread critical acclaim and winning the National Film Award. Over the years, all four films have continued to be remembered for their emotional depth, memorable performances, and meaningful narratives rather than commercial formulas, reinforcing Ghai's belief in contentfirst filmmaking. Subhash Ghai has long balanced mainstream entertainers with thought-provoking cinema, and his latest post reflects that philosophy. At a time when conversations around budgets and box office collections dominate the industry, the filmmaker's message
shifts the spotlight back to storytelling, reminding audiences that lasting cinematic impact is often created by honest, wellcrafted narratives rather than massive production costs. As the film industry continues to evolve, Ghai's tribute to these Mukta Searchlight productions stands as a celebration of meaningful cinema that continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers. His words have struck a chord with fans and industry professionals alike, proving that even years later, these small-budget films remain shining examples of how great content can leave a lasting legacy in Indian cinema.
KERALA BUDGET RECOGNISES CINEMA AS INDUSTRY, ANNOUNCES FILM CITY IN KOCHI Heeding the film fraternity's age-old demand, the V D Satheesan govt declared cinema as an industry in its budget and promised to implement comprehensive projects to develop the Malayalam cinema sector, earmarking INR 100 crore for the endeavour. "As part of this, JC Daniel International Film City, Chitranagaram, will be established in Kochi. Granting formal industry status to cinema, creating a permanent venue for the international film festival, forming robust anti-piracy cells and cultivating an environment to attract premier national and international film productions are targeted through this project," Satheesan stated in his budget speech. The govt's decision is expected to give a big push to Malayalam cinema. "We wholeheartedly welcome the govt's decision in the new budget to announce projects, including a
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cultural park, to uplift the film sector. These projects will certainly provide fresh energy and growth to the cinema field. The announcement that steps will be taken to consider cinema as an industry gives new hope to thousands of film workers. Heartfelt thanks to Chief Minister V D Satheesan and Cultural Affairs Minister P C Vishnunadh. Once cinema assumes industry status, Malayalam cinema can enjoy several benefits. "Producers, distributors and others now depend heavily on private moneylenders for meeting various financial needs. If cinema is declared as an industry, the funds can be availed as bank loans," said Kerala Film Chamber President Anil Thomas. "Moreover, the Malayalam cinema sector too can enjoy various subsidies and other benefits available for industries. Cinema halls, which are paying hefty electricity bills, will get power at a lower tariff as industrial enterprises," he said. It has been several years since Kochi became the Kodambakkam of Kerala, with film shootings and studios mainly concentrating in the city. Now, the state govt in the budget has announced that a film city will be set up in Kochi in the name of JC Daniel, who is widely regarded as the father of Malayalam cinema. "Now, more than half of the films are being filmed in Kochi or other parts of Ernakulam district. Post-
production work for around 60% of Malayalam movies is done at studios in Kochi. So, Kochi is an ideal location for setting up JC Daniel Film City," Thomas said. Around 200 Malayalam movies are released every year, with the total investment coming to INR 800 crore to INR 1,000 crore. Of the total movies, only around 20 generate profits, with the others ending up at break-even or as flops. Producers and distributors attribute the loss primarily to high production costs, including interest on loans availed from moneylenders.
UFO MOVIEZ PARTNERS WITH DCDC TO EXPAND INDIAN CINEMA DISTRIBUTION IN NORTH AMERICA UFO Moviez India and the Digital Cinema Distribution Coalition (DCDC) have announced a strategic partnership on August, 2026, to distribute Indian feature films across North America. The agreement aims to expand the global footprint of Indian cinema by providing a streamlined pathway for content delivery to exhibitors in the United States and Canada. This move addresses the growing
demand for international cinema among American audiences while simplifying the logistical complexities of digital distribution for Indian filmmakers. The partnership combines UFO Moviez' extensive relationships with Indian content owners with DCDC's industry-leading digital cinema delivery infrastructure. DCDC currently serves more than 3,100 sites and over 33,000 screens nationwide, offering a secure and reliable network for feature films, trailers, and alternative content. By integrating these capabilities, the alliance seeks to enhance operational efficiency for distributors and exhibitors alike, ensuring faster and more secure delivery of premium theatrical content. Rajesh Mishra, Group CEO of UFO Moviez, stated that DCDC's network offers unmatched quality and reach, making it an ideal partner for connecting Indian filmmakers with a broader exhibitor base. He highlighted the tremendous opportunity to grow audiences for Indian cinema throughout North America, citing the region as one of the world's most important theatrical markets. Howard Kiedaisch, CEO of DCDC, emphasised the increasing appetite among American audiences for diverse, high-quality international content. He noted that Indian
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cinema continues to captivate viewers with compelling stories, and the partnership aims to help more of these films reach wider audiences through efficient digital distribution channels. The collaboration will commence with the upcoming release of The Indian Story. This follows the successful North American release of Bandar, which demonstrated the viability of the distribution model. The companies intend to leverage this initial success to broaden the range of Indian films available to North American audiences, reinforcing their shared commitment to expanding access to premium theatrical content. The scale of DCDC's infrastructure is central to this partnership's potential impact. With access to over 33,000 screens, Indian filmmakers gain immediate exposure to a vast theatrical network that was previously difficult to navigate individually. This volume suggests a significant reduction in distribution friction, allowing content owners to focus on marketing rather than logistical hurdles. The successful prior release of Bandar serves as a proofof-concept, validating the technical and commercial feasibility of this digital delivery model for future titles like The Indian Story.
together with an innovative, capitalefficient expansion model, making world-class cinema more accessible to audiences across India's emerging urban centres. As India's economic growth increasingly extends beyond its largest metropolitan centres, a new generation of cities is witnessing rising disposable incomes, rapid infrastructure development, expanding organised retail and evolving consumer aspirations. PVR INOX SMART Cinemas has been created to meet this transformation by delivering a premium cinema experience tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of these dynamic markets. The new concept will be rolled out primarily through a capital-efficient FOCO (Franchise-Owned, CompanyOperated) model, enabling PVR INOX to partner with developers and entrepreneurs across India to accelerate the rollout of world-class cinema destinations. Built on nearly three decades of exhibition leadership, operational excellence and deep expertise in cinema development, the model creates long-term value for partners while expanding access to world-class cinema experiences. The journey begins in Muzaffarpur,
one of North Bihar's most prominent commercial and educational centres with a vibrant regional catchment and rapidly evolving retail landscape. Known for its entrepreneurial spirit and rich cultural heritage, the city reflects the aspirations of consumers seeking premium entertainment experiences closer to home. As the first destination for PVR INOX SMART Cinemas, Muzaffarpur marks the beginning of the company's long-term vision to bring world-class cinema experiences to new audiences across India. PVR INOX has already signed six additional PVR INOX SMART Cinemas properties for delivery over the next nine months, while discussions with developers across several other growth markets are actively underway. Every PVR INOX SMART Cinemas property will deliver the signature PVR INOX experience through 2K laser projection, immersive 7.1 surround sound, thoughtfully curated food and beverage offerings, pristine auditoriums and a safe, welcoming environment, reimagined in a contemporary, value-led format for audiences in high-growth markets across India.
SMARTER SCREENS, BIGGER AMBITIONS: PVR INOX UNVEILS SMART CINEMAS PVR INOX, India's largest and most premium cinema exhibition company, unveiled PVR INOX SMART Cinemas, a landmark new cinema concept that marks the next evolution of the company's growth journey. Designed specifically for India's Tier III cities, PVR INOX SMART Cinemas brings the signature PVR INOX experience
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ICONIC SINGLE-SCREEN THEATRE RAJ MANDIR JAIPUR TURNS 50 Raj Mandir, Jaipur's single-screen cinema, has completed 50 years, marking half a century since it transformed watching a film into a spectacle. Opened on June 1, 1976, the theatre remains one of India's most recognisable cinema landmarks and continues to attract movie lovers and tourists. Often called the 'Pride of Asia' and 'Cinema Ka Mandir,' Raj Mandir was conceived during the 1960s by cinema entrepreneur Mehtab Chand Golcha. Architect WM Namjoshi was brought in to design the ambitious structure, but the project faced difficulties. In 1975, Jaipur jeweller Rajmal Surana acquired the unfinished property and completed the dream. The theatre was inaugurated by then Rajasthan Chief Minister Hari Dev Joshi, with Dharmendra and Hema Malini's Charas becoming the first film screened there. What made Raj Mandir extraordinary was its approach to hospitality. At a time when several Indian theatres had wooden seats and ceiling fans, Raj Mandir offered wall-to-wall carpeting, air-conditioning, automatic curtains, waiting areas and fragrance-filled interiors. Its washrooms reportedly even provided towels, an unusual luxury for cinema halls in the 1970s. The Surana family's jewellery heritage shaped the theatre's identity. Seating sections were named Pearl,
Ruby, Emerald and Diamond instead of ordinary categories such as balcony and upper circle. Nine stars on the building's exterior represented the precious gemstones associated with the Navratna tradition. Designed in the Art Modern style, Raj Mandir combined Art Deco influences with the grandeur of Rajasthan's royal architecture. Its sweeping staircases, chandeliers, decorative mirrors, velvet drapes and famous meringue-shaped ceiling gave audiences the feeling of entering a palace rather than a cinema hall. Despite its appearance, the theatre did not become an immediate financial success. Critics questioned whether audiences would respect its expensive interiors. Rajmal Surana, however, believed visitors would respond positively when offered a refined environment. His confidence eventually paid off as Raj Mandir became a celebrated destination. Raj Kapoor reportedly praised the theatre in its visitors' book, writing that other cinema exhibitors should learn from Raj Mandir how to present a film. Over the decades, it screened major Hindi hits including Deewar, Don, Naseeb, Maine Pyar Kiya, Beta and Hum Aapke Hain Koun!. Ram Teri Ganga Maili enjoyed an extraordinary 74-week run there. While numerous singlescreen theatres disappeared during
the multiplex era, Raj Mandir survived by remaining more than a screening venue. Now equipped with modern projection and Dolby Atmos sound, the nearly 1,300-seat theatre continues to preserve its decor, hospitality and nostalgic charm. Today, the third generation of the Surana family oversees the landmark. For older Jaipur residents, it remains tied to memories of blockbuster premieres and family outings. For younger visitors, it offers a glimpse of an era when cinema halls were designed to inspire awe before the film began.
UFO CINEMA SOLUTIONS LAUNCHES MAGNOVA, A NEW PREMIUM LARGE FORMAT CINEMA EXPERIENCE FOR INDIA For decades, premium cinema experiences remained accessible only to a limited segment of moviegoers. Seeking to redefine that landscape, UFO Cinema Solutions today announced the launch of MAGNOVA, a next-generation Premium Large Format (PLF) cinema experience developed specifically for the Indian market. Designed to bring world-class cinematic presentation to audiences across the country, MAGNOVA aims to expand the reach of premium largeformat entertainment beyond metropolitan cities, making high-end movie experiences accessible to a wider audience in emerging and
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growing markets. The platform is powered by industry-leading technologies from HeyLED and CINITY, combining advanced visual and audio capabilities to deliver an elevated cinema experience. Key features of MAGNOVA include stunning HDR visuals with exceptional contrast and vibrant colours, immersive audio, ultrasmooth High Frame Rate playback of up to 120 FPS, 4K-grade Ultra HD resolution for enhanced image clarity, advanced high-efficiency 3D technology, and a premium large-format screen environment. According to UFO Cinema Solutions, MAGNOVA represents more than the introduction of another cinema screen format. It is positioned as a new benchmark for premium movie exhibition in India, bringing together cutting-edge technology and large-format presentation to enhance the theatrical experience for audiences nationwide. With the launch of MAGNOVA, UFO Cinema Solutions continues its commitment to making premium cinema experiences more widely available, reinforcing its vision of delivering world-class entertainment across India.
Actor Rohini Molleti at the unveiling of MAGNOVA with the UFO team at Big Cine Expo 2026, Chennai
EPSON SHOWCASES THE FUTURE OF IMMERSIVE CINEMA AT BIG CINE EXPO CHENNAI
Cinema is changing, and audiences today expect increasingly immersive and memorable experiences. This is where projection technology plays an important role. As the world's No. 1 projector brand, Epson brings decades of expertise in projection and its proprietary 3LCD technology to deliver bright, vibrant and engaging visuals. At Big Cine Expo 2026, Epson showcased how its advanced laser projection and 3LCD technologies can help cinema operators create more immersive viewing experiences while delivering reliable, consistent performance. Today, cinema operators are looking for more than just a projector. They seek excellent picture quality, high brightness, reliable performance, lower maintenance and greater operational efficiency. With audiences demanding more premium viewing experiences, colour performance is also becoming increasingly important. Epson's 3LCD technology delivers rich, vibrant colours and highcolour brightness, while its laser projection solutions offer longlasting performance and reduced maintenance requirements. India's cinema and entertainment industry is expanding beyond the major metros, with Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities witnessing growing demand for premium and immersive
entertainment experiences. Epson sees a strong opportunity to take its projection technology to a wider range of markets and will continue to strengthen its partner network to reach customers across regions while providing the right technology and support. Epson's focus extends beyond traditional cinemas. Its projection solutions can be used on large cinema screens, in smaller theatres, and in e-cinema setups, depending on screen size and application requirements. The company also sees growing opportunities in auditoriums, entertainment venues, museums, exhibitions, themed attractions and other experiential environments. Technologies such as edge blending, large-format projection and 3D projection mapping can help transform these spaces into engaging and immersive visual experiences. With a broad portfolio spanning cinemas, enterprises, education, SMBs, entertainment venues and home entertainment, Epson offers projection solutions for diverse requirements-from meeting rooms to large-format theatre experiences. Through these capabilities, Epson aims to go beyond traditional projection and enable immersive, engaging experiences across a wide range of spaces and applications.
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• INDIA PLEXING •
1 CINEMAS:
NOIDA'S NEW AGE ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION Cinema exhibition seems to be ever-evolving beyond just movies, with modern theatres focusing equally on design, technology, comfort, and atmosphere. The arrival of a new premium multiplex in Noida reflects this shift, blending immersive projection and sound systems with thoughtfully designed social spaces that transform cinema into a complete lifestyle experience. The launch of the new six-screen multiplex by 1Cinemas at Spectrum Metro Mall in Sector 75, Noida, represents a carefully designed shift
toward experience-driven cinema exhibition. More than just another multiplex opening, the property has been envisioned as a premium
entertainment environment where architecture, projection technology, acoustics, hospitality, and spatial design work together to elevate the act of moviegoing into a more immersive cultural experience.
Designed for Immersion Positioned on the third floor of the mixed-use commercial development, the cinema has been developed with a strong emphasis on visual scale, technical precision, and audience comfort. The six-screen property features Dolby Atmos immersive audio systems paired with 2K laser projection technology, creating sharper image reproduction, improved brightness levels, enhanced contrast, and greater consistency across auditoriums. The laser projection setup also
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• INDIA PLEXING • contributes to deeper colour accuracy and improved screen uniformity, helping deliver a cleaner and more dynamic cinematic presentation across both mainstream and premium format screenings.
Crafted Around Comfort, Acoustics, and Spatial Design The design language of the multiplex leans toward understated premium aesthetics rather than excessive spectacle. Recliner seating has been integrated across the property to maximise viewing comfort, while auditorium layouts have been engineered to maintain balanced sightlines and improved viewing angles from every row. The overall environment focuses on spatial openness, controlled lighting, and acoustic isolation, allowing audiences to remain fully engaged with the on-screen presentation. The incorporation of Atmos further enhances spatial sound movement in auditoriums, enabling more precise object-based audio placement that surrounds viewers with greater dimensional depth.
Extending Cinema beyond Beyond the auditoriums, the property extends the cinema experience into hospitality and social interaction. Instead of
functioning purely as a transactional movie venue, the multiplex includes a curated food and beverage zone featuring a live kitchen, traditional popcorn counters, and an espresso coffee bar that remain accessible even outside film screenings. This integration of cinema and lifestyle reflects the changing direction of modern exhibition spaces, where theatres are increasingly designed as social destinations capable of sustaining longer audience engagement beyond the runtime of a film.
Strategic Positioning The location itself strengthens the project's positioning within the rapidly evolving entertainment ecosystem of Noida. Spectrum Metro Mall is one of the city's largest mixed-use commercial developments, known for its European-inspired high street retail design, large-scale frontage, direct metro connectivity, and dense
surrounding residential catchment. The development spans multiple commercial and entertainment segments, including retail, dining, offices, serviced residences, and leisure infrastructure, making it a strategically important lifestyle destination in Central Noida. The project reportedly caters to a catchment of more than eight lakh families and benefits from its connectivity opposite Sector 50 Metro Station.
A New Chapter in Experience Led Cinema Exhibition The opening also marks the completion of a long-awaited cinema development within the property. The multiplex space had previously undergone several operational transitions and delays before finally opening under the 1Cinemas brand. Its arrival now adds another premium exhibition option to Noida's increasingly competitive theatrical market, alongside established multiplex destinations. However, the design direction of 1Cinemas appears more focused on blending boutique hospitality sensibilities with contemporary exhibition technology, rather than relying solely on screen count or large format branding. At a time when audiences have unlimited access to home entertainment, projects like this underline how modern cinemas are redefining their relevance. The emphasis is no longer only on films, but on atmosphere, comfort, sensory immersion, and the shared communal energy that theatrical spaces continue to uniquely offer. September - November 2026 TM-17
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• SPECIAL STORY •
DOLBY:
THE SCIENCE OF SPECTACLE
The magic of cinema has always lived between light and sound. Today, premium technologies are redefining that magic. At the forefront of this evolution is Dolby Laboratories, renowned for its innovations in immersive image and sound. In this exclusive interview, Sameer Seth, Director, Marketing - India & APAC Insights, Dolby Laboratories, shares insights on the future of premium cinema, the evolving theatrical landscape, and Dolby's vision for India and the APAC region. Over the last few years, how has India emerged as a key market for Dolby's global strategy, especially in cinema? India's story with Dolby is one of the most compelling stories. When we brought the first Dolby Atmos screen to India on 12th December 2012, at Sathyam Cinemas in Chennai, it was a statement of intent. Today, we have over 1,200 Dolby Atmos screens installed or committed across the country, and India accounts for nearly 45% of all theatrical Dolby Atmos content produced globally, with over 2,100
local titles released over the years. Most films that matter to the Box Office are released in Dolby Atmos in multiple Indian languages. Dolby Atmos is a household name in India today. This was possible because of the work done with creators. There are 29 Dolby Atmos theatrical mix facilities, 45+ Dolby Vision grading facilities, and 35+ Dolby Atmos Music mix studios, in addition to a Dolby Vision theatrical grading and Dolby Atmos mix facility at Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad; this is a content ecosystem of
genuine scale. And with Dolby Cinema now in 4 Indian cities of Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad & Trichy, we're entering a new chapter altogether. India isn't just a growth market for Dolby; it's a market that is actively shaping what premium cinema entertainment looks like.
India now contributes significantly to global Dolby Atmos content. What factors have driven this growth across regional languages and industries? The numbers here are striking, and the driving force behind that has
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• SPECIAL STORY • reinforcing cycle, and India has been one of the most dynamic markets in the world in terms of how quickly that cycle has accelerated.
How are changing consumer behaviours, especially postpandemic, reshaping demand for premium audio-visual experiences in India? The pandemic fundamentally changed how people consume entertainment. During that period, consumers invested in better streaming subscriptions and also upgraded their devices to enjoy premium content at home. Consumers today actively seek premium entertainment experiences across lifestyles from the living room to the cinema and are willing to invest in better picture and sound. That shift has raised the bar for theatrical experiences as well. Audiences are making more deliberate choices about how they watch the stories they care about, and they're looking for the best possible experience. That's where Dolby Cinema fits in. By combining Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos in a purpose-built environment, it delivers a truly premium cinema been filmmakers. Once filmmakers experienced what Dolby Atmos could do, the way it puts audiences inside the sonic world of a film, there was no going back. It became a creative tool, not just a technical upgrade. We see the same momentum across music, TV shows, sports & gaming, with consumers actively seeking content in Dolby Atmos across lifestyles including cinema, living room, on-the-go and now in cars. The other factor is consumer awareness and their active seeking of a Dolby Atmos experience across content types and lifestyles. It's a September - November 2026 TM-21
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• SPECIAL STORY • experience. The response we've seen across Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Trichy reinforces that when audiences are offered a meaningfully better theatrical experience, they actively seek it out.
What key trends are you observing in Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets with respect to the adoption of Dolby-enabled technologies? This is one of the most exciting parts of our India story. When you look at the six Dolby Cinema screens announced for India, you'll notice that the geography is deliberate. Trichy, Kochi, Ulikkal these are not metro markets. The exhibitors in these cities are making a clear statement: that audiences in Tier-2 and Tier-3 India are ready for world-class cinema experiences, and that premium exhibition is not the exclusive domain of large cities. What we're seeing is that regional film markets, which have always been passionate about production quality, are now driving demand for exhibition quality in their home markets. When a film like Kantara or a Telugu blockbuster is mixed in Dolby Atmos and graded in Dolby Vision, the audience in Kochi or Trichy wants to experience it the way the filmmaker intended, and that's a powerful market force
How do you see India influencing Dolby's global innovation roadmap in the future? India's influence is already visible. The sheer volume of content being produced in Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, the diversity of languages and storytelling styles, the scale and speed of exhibition growth, in itself is a testimony. When a market actively seeks the combined Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos experience both from a creation and consumption point of view, it's a force to reckon with. In January 2025, we collaborated with Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad to set up India's first Dolby Vision colour grading facility for cinema, inaugurated by SS Rajamouli, a filmmaker whose work has demonstrated to the world what Indian cinema can achieve on a global stage. That partnership is emblematic of the direction.
What is Dolby's role in bridging content creation, distribution, and playback within a unified ecosystem? This is perhaps what most distinguishes Dolby. Our role exists at every point in the content lifecycle, from the grading suite and the mix stage where the film is created, through the encoding
and distribution chain, to the screen in the theatre and the television or a laptop or phone at home. The value of that continuity is that the filmmaker's intent is preserved at every step. In India, the infrastructure across this chain is remarkably developed. We have mixing facilities, grading facilities, a growing network of Dolby Cinema screens, and a streaming ecosystem that spans Apple TV+, Netflix, Prime Video, JioHotstar, Zee5, SonyLIV, SunNXT, ETV Win, Hoichoi, and more, all streaming in Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. The experience extends to music and podcasts on Apple Music, Gaana, Amazon Music Unlimited, Audible, to live sports streamed in Dolby Vision on JioHotstar, and even to the car; the Mahindra XUV 7XO was India's first car to feature both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. When that ecosystem is intact, the audience gets the best version of every experience, regardless of where or how they're consuming it.
What's Dolby Cinema's roadmap for expanding across India? The ambition is absolutely there, and the trajectory is encouraging. In the span of just over six months, from the first Dolby Cinema opening in Pune in July 2025 to our fourth in Trichy, we've seen the kind of audience and exhibitor response that gives us a great deal of confidence. The six screens announced last year deliberately span markets that represent the breadth of Indian cinema culture, not just the metros. What I would say is that every market in India where there is a passionate film audience, and that is virtually every market - is where Dolby Cinema has a place. The format's relationship with regional cinema is particularly powerful; some of the most visually and sonically ambitious filmmaking in the world is happening in Indian languages today.
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• SPECIAL STORY • What are the latest upgrades in Dolby Cinema or theatrical sound formats that exhibitors should be aware of? For exhibitors evaluating the format, the current specifications are worth understanding. Dolby Cinema's dual 6-primary laser projection system delivers twice the brightness of standard DCI screens, up to 108 nits, with a contrast ratio of a million to one and three times the colour volume. It supports 3D and high frame rates up to 60fps for 4K content. On the audio side, speakers power screen channels, wall surrounds, ceiling surrounds, and subwoofers to playback Dolby Atmos-enabled content. Every speaker is concealed behind acoustic fabric, which is itself a design statement: the technology disappears so the experience can take over. Beyond the experience, what exhibitors should understand is the steady content pipeline in Dolby. With over 900 theatrical titles in Dolby Vision and
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Dolby Atmos globally, and Indian titles across languages increasingly being produced in the format from the ground up, the content ecosystem is robust and growing.
growing network of Dolby Cinema screens, we're creating the conditions for Indian filmmakers to realise their most ambitious visions without compromise.
How does Dolby collaborate with filmmakers and studios to push creative boundaries in theatrical storytelling?
How do you localise Dolby's global narrative for India's diverse linguistic and cultural landscape?
Our relationship with filmmakers is at the heart of everything we do. It's a creative collaboration. We work with directors, cinematographers, colourists, mix engineers, sound designers, and technicians to ensure they understand the full palette available to them, and to ensure that what they create is played back with complete fidelity. The establishment of India's first theatrical Dolby Vision colour grading facility at Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad is a tangible expression of that & the tools to make world-class cinema are now available here, in this ecosystem. Across our 29 theatrical Dolby Atmos mix facilities, and our
For us, localisation is not about translating a global message but rather about finding the right emotion that connects with audiences in each market. The core idea behind our 'Love Movie More in Dolby' campaign is that Dolby enables people to experience the stories, music and moments they love more deeply. That idea is universal, but the way it comes alive in India is uniquely local. India's relationship with entertainment is deeply emotional and diverse, across languages, regions and formats. Whether it is a filmmaker creating a regional blockbuster, a fan experiencing a live sporting moment, or someone listening to
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• SPECIAL STORY • music at home, these are personal cultural moments. Our role is to showcase how Dolby enhances those experiences while staying true to the stories and communities behind them. Our content journey from cinema to streaming to music is not a translation of Dolby's global story; it is an important part of it.
What are the biggest challenges in scaling premium technology adoption across diverse Indian markets? Honest answer: the biggest challenge is not demand; it's sequencing that also involves work across the entire ecosystem, ensuring content creation, exhibition infrastructure and consumer awareness evolve together. Audiences in India are ready for premium experiences. What requires careful orchestration is ensuring that the content ecosystem, the exhibition infrastructure, and consumer awareness all develop in step. When any one of these lags, the value proposition is diminished. We also operate in a market where cinema economics vary significantly by geography. What works in Bengaluru or Hyderabad requires a different approach for smaller markets. Our approach has been to collaborate with the right exhibitor who shares the same ambition, and to ensure that every Dolby Cinema
that opens delivers on the full promise of the format. Quality over speed, always.
With your background across media and entertainment, how has your journey shaped Dolby's India marketing strategy? Having spent years on the entertainment and broadcast side, across dish TV, Disney Star, and Network18, I learned early what makes a story worth telling and, more importantly, what makes it worth hearing. That instinct shapes every marketing decision I make at Dolby. I don't approach marketing as a communication exercise; I approach it as a journalist would, asking what genuinely matters to the audience, what the real story is,
and how to tell it without wasting their time. It also shapes how I work with the people around me, whether that's my team, our agency partners, or our customers. I've always believed that the best work comes from trust, and trust comes from listening. After every campaign, every activation, every conversation, I find myself asking the people I work with, what could I have done better? What did I miss? That's not a formality for me; it's how I stay honest with myself and how I make sure the people around me know their perspective genuinely matters. I'd rather be the person in the room who asks the uncomfortable question than the one who assumes everything went well. That collaborative, feedbackfirst instinct is, I think, what's allowed us to build an ecosystem story in India that feels coherent and owned by everyone who's been part of building it.
If you had to define the future of entertainment in one sentence, what would it be? A billion people who refuse to settle for anything less than extraordinary; that is India's entertainment future, and it's already here.
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• INDIA PLEXING •
MIRAJ CINEMAS:
A NEW ADDRESS FOR CINEMA IN GHAZIABAD
A cinema outing begins long before the opening frame appears on screen. It starts with the anticipation of choosing a film, continues through the first glimpse of the venue, and builds with the promise of comfortable seats, good food and an experience worth stepping out of home for. Adding to this changing landscape is a new four-screen multiplex at ATS Khyber Range in Ghaziabad. The new property brings together contemporary cinema technology, premium seating, distinctive food and beverage concepts and a dedicated luxury auditorium, positioning itself as a destination for both moviegoers and those simply looking for a night out. A Strategic Addition to Ghaziabad The new multiplex strengthens the cinema presence in one of the National Capital Region's rapidly developing neighbourhoods. Its location at ATS Khyber Range provides convenient access for residents in and around Pandav Nagar, while its proximity to NH 24 places it within an important residential and commercial corridor. Designed as more than a conventional movie theatre, the property combines cinema, dining and leisure under one roof. The approach reflects the changing expectations of urban audiences, for whom a trip to the cinema is
increasingly part of a larger social experience. With four screens and a total seating capacity of 447, the multiplex has been planned to
accommodate different audience groups and moviegoing occasions. Screen 1 offers 110 seats, while Screen 2 is the largest auditorium
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• INDIA PLEXING • with 181 seats. Screen 3 accommodates 107 guests, providing a further option for audiences looking for a more intimate viewing environment.
Bringing the Signature Experience to Ghaziabad The defining feature of the property is its fourth auditorium, which introduces the premium Signature format to the city. With 49 spacious ultra-luxury recliner seats, the auditorium is designed around comfort and exclusivity rather than simply maximising capacity. The Signature experience also includes an exclusive lounge and dedicated guest access, creating a more private and personalised environment from the moment audiences arrive. The emphasis on generous seating and premium hospitality is aimed at viewers who increasingly expect cinema to offer the same level of comfort and service associated with other forms of premium entertainment. With this launch, Ghaziabad becomes the third city in India to feature a Signature auditorium. The format is already present at Spectra Mall in Patiala and Chand Cinemas in Delhi, making its arrival in Ghaziabad another step in the expansion of the premium concept.
"A lot of thought has gone into how this property runs, not just how it looks. Every screen is built to the same operating standard, from projection and sound to seat comfort, so the experience stays consistent no matter which auditorium you're in. F&B has become a real reason people choose one cinema over another, and that's why we've built PopCorner and Chef's Corner as proper, full-fledged counters rather than an afterthought. Guests can order straight from their seat with our QR system and get freshly prepared food, whether it's popcorn or a full meal, without missing a minute of the film. Ghaziabad audiences are going to see the same discipline and quality standards we run across every Miraj property in the country." – Sameer Munshi, Chief Operating Officer, Miraj Cinemas
Technology Designed Around the Film While comfort and hospitality form an important part of the experience, the heart of the property remains the screen. All four auditoriums feature advanced audio-visual technology and immersive surround sound, creating an environment designed to draw audiences deeper into the cinematic world. The combination of modern projection
and sound systems ensures that the visual and sonic elements of films are presented with consistency across the property. From large-scale action sequences and elaborate soundscapes to quieter dramatic moments, the technology is intended to ensure that every frame and sound contributes to the experience. This focus on technology also reflects the broader evolution of cinema exhibition. With audiences now able to access high-quality content at home, theatres increasingly need to offer experiences that cannot be easily replicated in a living room. Large screens, immersive sound, premium seating and the atmosphere of a
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• INDIA PLEXING • shared viewing environment remain among the strongest advantages of theatrical exhibition.
Food Takes Centre Stage The experience at the new property extends beyond the auditorium. Food and beverage have been given a prominent role through two dedicated in-house concepts, PopCorner and Chef's Corner. PopCorner focuses on familiar cinema favourites, offering freshly prepared salted, cheese and caramel popcorn alongside a selection of quick bites. For many moviegoers, popcorn remains inseparable from the cinema experience, and the dedicated counter builds on that familiar ritual while expanding the range of
choices available to guests. Chef's Corner takes a more elaborate approach. Designed as a live open kitchen, the counter allows guests to watch their
food being prepared fresh. Its menu moves well beyond traditional cinema snacks, featuring gourmet burgers, sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas, Frankie rolls, appetisers, chaat, pasta and other options. The wider menu allows the property to function as a dining destination in its own right. Guests can choose to arrive early for a meal, combine dinner with a film or simply enjoy a quick bite during their visit.
Dining Without Missing the Movie Convenience has also been built into the food and beverage experience. A QR-based ordering system allows guests to order directly from their seats, eliminating the need to leave the auditorium during the movie experience.
"We picked ATS Khyber Range because the numbers make sense. This part of Ghaziabad is seeing serious residential and commercial development, and that means a large, young population that currently has to travel out of the area for a proper cinema experience. Bringing Signature here is a deliberate move. It signals that we're not just expanding our screen count; we're bringing our most premium format into markets that are ready for it. This launch fits into a larger plan for Miraj across NCR. We already have a strong footprint across Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad and Sahibabad, and we're actively scouting more locations in the region as it grows. Ghaziabad is an important piece of that expansion strategy, and you'll see us continue to invest here." – Deepak Adwani, Executive Director, Miraj Cinemas September - November 2026 TM-27
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• INDIA PLEXING • The system is particularly suited to modern audiences who value speed and convenience. Food can be ordered without missing trailers or leaving the comfort of the auditorium, with orders delivered directly to the guest. Such small touches demonstrate how cinema exhibition is increasingly borrowing from the hospitality sector. The objective is no longer limited to getting audiences into their seats. Every stage of the visit, from arrival and dining to seating and service, contributes to how audiences perceive the overall experience.
A Destination beyond the Screen The new multiplex arrives at a time when the role of cinema is undergoing a significant transformation. Theatres are competing not only with other cinemas but also with streaming platforms, restaurants, gaming and a wide range of entertainment options available outside the home. Against this backdrop, this cinema takes a destination-led approach.
Redefining the Modern Multiplex Visit
Its combination of four screens, a premium Signature auditorium, modern audio-visual technology, specialised food and beverage concepts and convenient ordering is designed to make the cinema visit feel like an occasion. The variety of seating options also allows the property to cater to different types of audiences. Families can enjoy a conventional theatrical experience, groups of friends can turn a weekend movie into a social outing, while couples and premium-seeking viewers can opt for the more intimate Signature auditorium.
The opening of the four-screen property marks another development in the continuing expansion of cinema exhibition across the National Capital Region. More importantly, it demonstrates how multiplexes are adapting to changing audience expectations. At ATS Khyber Range, that philosophy comes together through a compact yet varied offering. From the 181-seat main auditorium to the 49-seat Signature experience, from freshly prepared popcorn to live kitchen dining, the property has been designed around different ways of enjoying a night at the movies. For Ghaziabad's growing audience base, the new multiplex adds another destination to the city's evolving entertainment landscape. It is a space where a film can remain the central attraction while everything around it helps turn watching that film into an experience worth remembering.
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• INDIA PLEXING •
CINÉPOLIS, CITY CENTRE II:
A FUTURE-READY CINEMA FOR A FUTURE-READY COMMUNITY IN DWARKA In today's exhibition landscape, opening another multiplex is no longer enough. Audiences have become increasingly selective, expecting every cinema visit to justify leaving behind the comfort of home entertainment. Theatres are therefore evolving into destinations rather than mere screening venues, where technology, comfort, accessibility, and location collectively define the experience. This newest multiplex at City Centre II, Dwarka, embodies this philosophy precisely. Located within one of West Delhi's fastest-growing residential corridors, the five-screen multiplex is more than an expansion of Cinépolis' footprint; it represents a calculated investment in an underserved yet rapidly maturing market. With 761 seats spread across five auditoriums, the property has been designed around the company's 'Future Ready Cinema' concept, integrating Laser Projection, Dolby Sound, and premium recliner seating across every screen. Rather than reserving luxury for a flagship auditorium, the experience has been democratised across the entire complex, ensuring consistency irrespective of screen choice.
What makes this launch particularly significant is its timing and location. Dwarka has witnessed remarkable residential and commercial growth over the past decade, yet premium cinema infrastructure has struggled to keep pace. By opening at City Centre II, Cinépolis isn't merely adding screens; it is establishing an entertainment anchor for a neighbourhood retail destination designed around everyday convenience. The multiplex complements the mall's mix of retail, dining, and lifestyle offerings,
reinforcing the increasingly symbiotic relationship between modern shopping centres and cinema exhibition. Technology remains at the heart of the experience. Laser projection delivers improved brightness, colour accuracy, and image stability while offering greater operational efficiency than traditional xenon systems. Paired with Dolby's immersive sound technology, the result is an audio-visual presentation capable of enhancing
Dwarka represents a high-density market with diverse audiences deserving highstandard cinema facilities. He described the company's expansion focus as delivering the latest technology, appealing food and beverage experiences, a rewarding loyalty program, and accessible pricing. The new location at City Centre II Dwarka aligns with these priorities – Devang Sampat, Managing Director, Cinépolis India September - November 2026 TM-29
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• INDIA PLEXING • both large-scale spectacles and intimate storytelling. Meanwhile, premium recliner seating across every auditorium reflects a broader industry shift toward prioritising comfort as a standard expectation rather than an exclusive upgrade. Yet the true strength of this property lies beyond hardware specifications. Cinépolis has increasingly positioned its Future Ready Cinema model around four interconnected pillars: advanced technology, thoughtful auditorium design, curated food and beverage offerings, and accessible pricing. This holistic approach acknowledges a reality that today's exhibitors understand well: the cinematic experience begins long before the trailers roll and extends well after the credits end. Every aspect of the customer journey contributes to the perceived value of a visit. Strategically, the Dwarka launch also reflects a broader evolution in India's exhibition business. Rather than concentrating solely on metropolitan CBDs or luxury malls, exhibitors are increasingly targeting high-density suburban micromarkets with strong residential catchments. These locations provide sustained footfall, lower competitive saturation, and an audience seeking premium experiences closer to home. The City Centre II multiplex is a textbook example of this emerging strategy, where convenience becomes as important as spectacle.
We are delighted to welcome Cinépolis to City Centre II Dwarka. A multiplex of this calibre, with Laser Projection, Dolby Sound, and premium recliner seating, is a meaningful addition to what City Centre offers. Cinema drives footfall, and we expect this opening to bring more families through our doors across the festive weekend and well beyond. – Harsh Vardhan Bansal, Co-Founder, Unity Group & Vegas Mall sound systems, but on creating complete entertainment destinations that integrate seamlessly into the communities they serve. As India's urban centres continue to expand outward, neighbourhood-focused premium cinemas like this are likely to become the blueprint for the next chapter of theatrical exhibition. exhibition despite the rise of streaming platforms. Ultimately, the significance of Cinépolis City Centre II extends beyond another addition to Delhi's multiplex landscape. It represents a growing belief that the future of cinema exhibition will be built not simply on bigger screens or louder
In an industry where audiences increasingly choose experiences over convenience, Cinépolis City Centre II, Dwarka, stands as a confident reminder that the future of cinema belongs not only to cutting-edge technology but to thoughtfully designed spaces that make every visit feel worthwhile.
For Cinépolis India, the opening further strengthens an expansion drive that has prioritised quality alongside scale. The Dwarka multiplex became the company's eighth Future Ready Cinema, launched within a year, taking its nationwide network to 489 screens across 41 cities, a reflection of sustained confidence in theatrical
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• SPECIAL STORY •
GOURMET POPCORNICA:
INDIA'S POPCORN REVOLUTION HAS JUST TAKEN A NEW PATH
For decades, India's premium popcorn industry depended heavily on imported seeds and grain. That is now beginning to change with the arrival of homegrown, high-quality popcorn maize hybrids developed to meet international standards while supporting Indian farmers, strengthening domestic production and reducing import dependence.
hybrid seeds, Krisna459 and Godari234, were officially launched at Gourmet Popcornica's factory in Musunuru, Andhra Pradesh. The occasion was attended by the Hon'ble Vice President of India,
Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, the Hon'ble Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Shri S. Abdul Nazeer, and the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Nara Chandrababu Naidu.
A Landmark Launch for Indian Popcorn In a moment that the Indian popcorn industry has awaited for more than a decade, two highexpansion non-GMO popcorn maize September - November 2026 TM-31
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• SPECIAL STORY • The launch was followed by the felicitation of leading farmers and partners from eight states, recognising their contribution to the growth of India's domestic popcorn ecosystem.
Moving Beyond Import Dependence For years, India's premium popcorn industry relied heavily on imported seeds and grain. Krisna459 and Godari234 offer a home-grown alternative, developed over five growing seasons to meet international standards for kernel size and popping expansion while providing pest tolerance, shorter crop duration, and strong yields suited to Indian conditions. The hybrids mark an important step towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat in agriculture and food production.
"This hybrid is precisely the kind of agritech innovation our Swarnandhra 2047 vision calls for, technology that does not replace the farmer, but empowers him. When our farmers succeed, Andhra Pradesh succeeds, and when Andhra Pradesh succeeds, India moves closer to a Viksit Bharat" – Nara Chandrababu Naidu, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh
The development is expected to benefit over 17,500 farmers across eight states, many of them small and marginal farmers cultivating nearly 40,000 acres with Gourmet Popcornica. With yields of around 4.5 tonnes of wet cob per acre, processor-grade quality, assured off-take, and contract pricing, the new hybrids could provide small farming families with greater income security, reliable market access, and a sustainable opportunity to participate in India's growing premium popcorn industry.
"This is not the story of a company - it is the story of over 17,500 farmers across eight states who chose to believe a better harvest was possible. Krisna459 and Godari234 are our answer to their faith in us, and our tribute to every farmer who partners with Gourmet Popcornica. We are witnessing a moment that Indian agriculture has waited for - the day India's own soil, India's own science, and India's own farmers gave birth to our first non-GMO, high-expansion Popcorn Maize Hybrid seed. For me, and for everyone at Gourmet Popcornica, this is not a corporate milestone; it supports the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat" – S.B.P. Pattabhi Rama Rao, Managing Director, Gourmet Popcornica TM-32 September - November 2026 TMagic_Sep-Nov2026_06 Single Pahges.pmd 32
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• SPECIAL STORY • The Rapid Growth of India's Popcorn Market India's popcorn maize market has witnessed remarkable growth over the past decade. Consumption has increased from approximately 50,000 tonnes in 2014 and 2015 to around 1.3 lakh tonnes in 2025 and 2026. At present, domestic production meets close to 70 per cent of the country's overall demand, representing a dramatic transformation for an industry that was once heavily dependent on imports. The growth of local production has also generated significant economic benefits. The shift towards domestic popcorn cultivation is estimated to have saved India approximately INR 810 crore in foreign exchange during 2025 and 2026 alone. With new hybrids such as Krisna459 and Godari234 entering wider cultivation, the country is now working towards the possibility of ending popcorn imports altogether by 2030.
GOURMET POPCORNICA UNVEILS 'THE HUSK' AT BIG CINE EXPO 2026
Strengthening the Cinema Popcorn Supply Chain For the millions of Indians who enjoy popcorn at cinemas, the development may not immediately alter the experience at the concession counter. A greater proportion of the popcorn consumed in India can now originate from Indian farms, grown using Indian developed hybrids and supported by a domestic supply chain that is less vulnerable to international shipping costs, tariffs and global disruptions. For the cinema exhibition industry, where popcorn remains one of the most recognisable and important food and beverage offerings, a stronger domestic supply chain could contribute to greater long-term stability in sourcing and production. The growth of indigenous popcorn cultivation also reflects a larger evolution in the relationship
Gourmet Popcornica unveiled 'The Husk', its new global brand icon, at Big Cine Expo 2026 at the Chennai Trade Centre. The icon was jointly unveiled by SBP Pattabhi Rama Rao, Managing Director of Gourmet Popcornica, and Thomas Peace, Director of Sales at Preferred Popcorn, the company's longstanding international partner in the United States. Inspired by the corn husk, nature's first layer of protection around every kernel, the handdrawn symbol represents care and the collective journey behind every bag of popcorn. Its outer curve symbolises
protection, while the inner line represents transformation and revelation. As Asia's largest and the world's fifth-largest grower and processor of popcorn maize, Gourmet Popcornica will now feature The Husk across its packaging, facilities and brand communications. The unveiling at Big Cine Expo 2026 was particularly fitting, given popcorn's enduring association with the cinema experience. The new icon will serve as a visual representation of the people, care and craftsmanship involved in bringing popcorn from the farm to the consumer. September - November 2026 TM-33
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• SPECIAL STORY • "I've spent my life growing popcorn in Nebraska, and I can tell you - what Gourmet Popcornica has built here matches anything we grow back home. India now has the genetics, the farmers, and the scale to become one of the great popcorn-growing nations of the world, and we're proud to be part of that journey" – Norm Krug, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Preferred Popcorn, USA
"The Husk represents everything we have built over the last decade. It stands for the protection we extend to our more than 17,500 farmer partners across eight states in India, for the world-class quality we have proven can be grown on Indian soil, and for the innovation that connects the two. Unveiling it here, at Big Cine Expo, in the very industry that popularised popcorn for generations of Indians, felt like the right place to begin this new chapter." – SBP Pattabhi Rama Rao, Managing Director, Gourmet Popcornica
between Indian agriculture and the entertainment industry, connecting farms directly with one of the country's most visible consumer experiences.
From Consumer to Producer Until now, India has largely been a consumer of world-class popcorn genetics developed elsewhere. With Krisna459 and Godari234 demonstrating quality benchmarks comparable to leading international varieties, the country is now taking an important step towards becoming a producer of premium popcorn at scale. India possesses both the agricultural capacity and the farmer base required to significantly expand production. This signals a shift in India's position within the global popcorn ecosystem. From reducing import dependence and strengthening farmer incomes to securing supply chains for processors, retailers and cinema operators, the development brings together agriculture, technology and consumer demand. As India moves towards greater selfreliance in premium popcorn production, the humble kernel may emerge as another example of how domestic innovation can transform an industry from the farm to the cinema.
"We have watched Gourmet Popcornica grow from a single-state operation into a global- scale supplier over the years of our partnership. The Husk is a fitting identity for that journey; it is a mark that speaks to quality, care for the farmer, and ambition - values that we, at Preferred Popcorn, recognise well and are proud to stand alongside." – Thomas Peace, Director of Sales, Preferred Popcorn, USA TM-34 September - November 2026 TMagic_Sep-Nov2026_06 Single Pahges.pmd 34
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